Howard Retherford

Howard Lee Retherford, 82 of Summitville died on Saturday, July 23, 2022, in the Summit Health and Living Center, Summitville after an extended illness.

Howard was born on Jan. 29, 1940, and was the son of Melvin and Lola (Davidson) Retherford. When he attended elementary school, he went to a one room schoolhouse called Dead Dog and later graduated from Summitville High School, Class of 1958. On Nov. 27, 1965, he married Bonnie (Roark) Retherford.

Howard was a lifelong farmer in Boone Twp. and he also drove a semi-truck for Red Gold.

Howard was a loving husband, father and grandfather who always enjoyed spending time with his family. He also enjoyed boating and water skiing,and drinking coffee with his friends. Howard never met a stranger and enjoyed meeting people and visiting with them. Howard was an avid fan of Purdue University. And he was a member of the Harmony Christian Church, Elwood.

Howard served his country as a First Lieutenant in the United States Army Reserves.

Those left to carry on his legacy of love are his wife Bonnie (Roark) Retherford, his children, Reid (Susan) Retherford, Ryan (Debra) Retherford, John Retherford and Annette(Retherford) Norris; his grandchildren, Clayton Sterling, Kaley Alexis, Breanne Joann, Darci Jo, Parker Jonathan, Madison Lily and Riley Dean, Hayden Patrick and great-grandchild Wrenley Mae. Also surviving is his brother, Allan (Shirley) Reherford.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Dwaine; two sisters, Rebecca and Margaret.

A service to celebrate Howard’s life will be held on Friday, July 29, 2022, at 1:00 p.m. in Whetsel Funeral Service, Park Ave. Chapel, 1503 S Park Ave., Alexandria with Rev. Ron Meyers officiating. Interment will follow in Vinson Memorial Park Cemetery, Summitville with Military honors by the United States Army and Elwood VFW Post 5782. Friends may visit the funeral home on Thursday, July 28, 2022, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and on Friday from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be sent to the Harmony Christian Church, 9043 W 1800 N, Elwood, IN 46036 or in care of the funeral home.

Bud & Susan Whetsel are honored to care for Howard and serve the Retherford family.

For additional obituary information and online condolences visit Howard’s tribute page at www.whetselfuneralservice.com.